Environment
Santa Monica Mountains agencies coordinate red-flag park closures
Four public-land agencies established one closure protocol for dangerous fire weather across the Santa Monica Mountains, aiming to reduce confusion and lower the risk of wildfire ignition and emergency evacuations.
California State Parks said the coordinated approach will be used beginning Thursday, October 15, when a National Weather Service red flag warning takes effect. The participating agencies are State Parks, the National Park Service, the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority.
State parks under the warning: Leo Carrillo, Malibu Creek, Point Mugu and Topanga
State historic parks: Will Rogers and Santa Susana Pass
Decision schedule: Reviewed daily, with next-day notice when possible
Visitors: Check the managing agency before traveling
Specific closures will vary by forecast
The protocol does not automatically close every named park for the same period. Superintendents and directors will decide which areas to close based on the geographic reach and severity of each forecast. Closures may include trails, backcountry areas, visitor centers, parking lots, programs, field trips and permitted events.
Some developed parking areas, campgrounds, beaches, overlooks and public roads may remain open depending on conditions. Officials cautioned that not every closed area will be signed or gated and advised visitors to postpone hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and picnicking in affected areas until dangerous fire weather eases.
Official source: California State Parks — October 14, 2026 →